By Burnett Munthali
There are exactly 180 days remaining until polling day on 16th September 2025.
As the countdown continues, citizens must prepare to participate in one of the most significant democratic exercises in the nation.
It is important for all eligible voters to ensure they are well-informed about the electoral process, rules, and regulations governing political participation.
One crucial regulation to note is that it is a legal offence for any person to be a member of more than one political party.
This law is in place to uphold political integrity and prevent individuals from manipulating the electoral process by affiliating with multiple parties simultaneously.

Anyone found guilty of violating this law faces serious legal consequences.
Upon conviction, an offender can be fined up to K2,000,000, a significant penalty designed to deter individuals from engaging in dual party membership.
Additionally, the law provides for a custodial sentence of up to twelve months for those who breach this regulation.
As the election approaches, misinformation and unverified electoral news can pose a significant threat to peace and transparency in the electoral process.
It is crucial for citizens to avoid spreading unverified news, as false information can lead to confusion, panic, and possible political instability.
Instead, people should rely on credible sources and official communication channels to stay updated on electoral matters.